The Project Team are currently working on the final design details before the main contract goes out to tender. Not surprisingly, in such a large and complex project, there have been a few complications along the way. These have caused some slippage in the programme but the project launch is still on schedule for spring 2011.

The main funder of the project is the Heritage Lottery Fund (£3.1m), and we continue to maintain close links with their Officers. At the time of the last report, the £2.4m target for ‘match – funding’ towards the total project cost of £5.5m looked attainable, however, SWRDA have recently reviewed their priorities in the light of serious budget pressures. While the core £750k funding for the Durlston Project is secure, the additional allocation of £232k to underwrite the project is in jeopardy. This could leave a significant shortfall in matched-funding which needs to be met from other sources.

Better news comes from Friends of Durlston who have now committed £75k of their funding to sponsor the top storey of the Castle, generally known as the ‘Observatory’ – not to be confused with the recently-developed Astronomical Observatory near the Visitor Centre.   ‘Friends’ are continuing their tremendous fundraising efforts to ensure all the aspects of the Durlston Project are achieved.

To get the project off to the perfect start, Durlston’s famous Great Globe and associated stone inscriptions are being given a new lease of life. Sue and Lawrence Kelland have started the painstaking work of cleaning, repair and repainting these important ‘Listed’ artefacts. The 40 ton Globe, erected in the late 19^th century by George Burt, is a particularly important part of Durlston’s Victorian heritage. Visitors are welcome to view Sue and Lawrence at work, and there are information boards on site to explain the process in more detail. Friends of Durlston volunteers will also be assisting with the stonework restoration.

The artist, Gary Breeze, has been appointed to create a ‘Timeline’ along the new zig-zag path, which will be created to improve access to the Castle. Gary's previous works include carved stone sculptures at the Scottish Parliament, the Millennium Dome and many other high profile projects. His work at Durlston, which is supported by the Fine Family Foundation and HLF, will explore geological time and change, particular in relation to the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.

Work on the Arts Council – funded ‘Diversity’ artwork is underway, and the artist Lulu Quinn has been working closely with the Ranger team to organise the 5,000 or so species names which will appear on this spectacular testament to Durlston’s biodiversity.  

Improving sustainable transport links to Durlston is a major priority, and plans for a Durlston shuttle bus are being developed in conjunction with the DCC Transport Team in discussion with private operators. Some capital funding has been secured and we hope to have the shuttle up and running by next summer.

Good progress has been made on a wide range of displays, panels and other interpretation material. Working with local quarries, some exciting geological exhibits are being developed, with preparation work on ‘The Rock’, a dramatic display funded by BP, expected to begin shortly.

There are numerous opportunities to get involved in the Durlston Project so if you would like to help please speak to a Ranger at the Visitor Centre, visit www.durlston.co.uk or telephone 01929 424443.

Hamish Murray (Head Ranger)